Midday Report for Tuesday 17 April 2018

12:37 PM.Fonterra's pledge to pay bills more promptly is being welcomed by trucking companies but they say far more is needed.  Audio

12:27 PM.A report in Australia says the Breakers forward Mika Vukona is moving to Brisbane for the next Australian National Basketball League season. Audio

12:23 PM.The furniture and appliance retailer, Smiths City, says it's going to make a full year loss, reflecting tough trading conditions and one-time costs of closing underperforming stores. Audio

12:21 PM.House prices continue to rise with a shortage of affordable housing spreading to centres outside of Auckland. Audio

12:18 PM.Fast food operator Restaurant Brands' profit has increased by more than a third on last year, driven by strong growth in its Australian and Pacific operations. Audio

12:16 PM.Fletcher Building is moving to patch up its finances through a share sale and divestment of two overseas businesses. Audio

12:00 PM.A Christchurch man has begun a hunger strike over an earthquake insurance claim. Fonterra changes its policy and promises to pay bills more promptly. Audio